my dad smokes, but, im showing symptoms of a smoker. Options

[voguelove]

well, i guess i've always had phlegm from as far back as i remember because my dad started smoking when he was like..13. but, i didnt exactly really notice it until lately.

and, it's ALWAYS there! GAH, it's so annoying. especially when i was singing during the musical. i'd have to like..hack up hairballs just to get it out for a minute or two. and my mic was on!..anways..


so, does anyone know how to get rid of phlegm? because it's really bothering me and it's extrememly annoying.

[*My Cinderella.*]

Here's what I got:

Don't swallow that phlegm if you want to get rid of it. Phlegm functions as a sticky film, filled with infection fighting substances like glycoproteins and immunoglobulins, which attaches itself to the lining of your bronchial tubes and lungs. Generally speaking, when phlegm starts to get coughed up, it means that the substance has served its purpose and needs to be expelled. Spit that phlegm into a tissue rather than trying to swallow it, because swallowing often times reintroduces the phlegm back into your pulmonary (lung) system.

If you want to get rid of phlegm, don't take a cough suppressant or use throat lozenges. Cough medicines that are not explicitly labeled as expectorants will only serve to exacerbate your phlegm troubles. Anything that helps to numb the pain of a cough or suppress a cough will allow more mucous and phlegm to build up because you've essentially shut off the mechanisms in your body that are meant to produce, well, productive coughs.

And personal advice from another: Gargle with listerine, 30ML for 30 seconds, at least 3 times a day, it works. or use warm water with salt, but thats gross.